Aryna Sabalenka won her first U.S. Open title, defeating Jessica Pegula 7-5, 7-5 for her third Grand Slam championship. Known for her powerful serve and groundstrokes, Sabalenka showed versatility by incorporating drop shots and volleys during key moments. This victory highlights her dominance on hard courts, boasting a 27-1 record at major tournaments over the past two years. Sabalenka emphasized her evolving game, noting that she aims to pressure opponents with more than just power. Her triumph solidifies her as a top contender in women’s tennis.
QUICK READ
- Aryna Sabalenka wins her first U.S. Open title and third Grand Slam championship, defeating Jessica Pegula 7-5, 7-5.
- Sabalenka, the No. 2 seed, showcased her trademark power and variety, using aggressive groundstrokes and strategic drop shots.
- The victory follows previous tough losses for Sabalenka at the U.S. Open, including being a runner-up in 2023 and semifinalist in 2021 and 2022.
- Sabalenka spoke about her personal challenges, including the loss of her father and an ex-boyfriend, crediting her perseverance and strength.
- Jessica Pegula, making her first Grand Slam final appearance, led 5-3 in the second set but couldn’t hold off Sabalenka’s comeback.
- Sabalenka dominated with 40 winners to Pegula’s 17, extending her winning streak to 12 matches and collecting a $3.6 million prize.
- Sabalenka’s Grand Slam victories now include two Australian Open titles (2023, 2024) and her U.S. Open triumph.
Aryna Sabalenka wins US Open, clinches third Grand Slam Title
Newslooks- NEW YORK (AP) —
Aryna Sabalenka claimed her first U.S. Open title and third Grand Slam victory, defeating Jessica Pegula 7-5, 7-5 in a thrilling final at Arthur Ashe Stadium. Sabalenka, the No. 2 seed from Belarus, showcased her power game alongside a newfound variety, closing out the match with her signature aggressive play and some well-placed drop shots
Reflecting on the tough losses from previous years at the U.S. Open, Sabalenka credited her perseverance and personal strength, including overcoming personal challenges such as the loss of her father and an ex-boyfriend. “In those tough moments, I reminded myself that I’ve been through a lot and I’m strong enough to hold under this pressure,” she said after the victory.
Sabalenka’s powerful serve and groundstrokes overwhelmed Pegula, as she racked up 40 winners to Pegula’s 17. Despite a strong second-set comeback from Pegula, Sabalenka remained composed, clinching four consecutive games to close out the match.
Sabalenka’s win extended her winning streak to 12 matches, and with it, she collected a $3.6 million winner’s check, cementing her place as one of the top contenders in women’s tennis.
Sabalenka, fresh off winning her first U.S. Open title and third Grand Slam championship, made it clear she’s still evolving as a player. Despite being recognized for her powerful serve and groundstrokes, she showcased her versatility in her 7-5, 7-5 victory over Jessica Pegula on Saturday.
The No. 2-ranked player is dominant on hard courts, boasting a 27-1 record at majors over the past two seasons. Sabalenka, who previously won two Australian Open titles, demonstrated her improved variety on the court by mixing in drop shots, volleys, and slice shots, breaking away from her reputation as just a hard hitter.
In critical moments, Sabalenka’s daring play paid off, especially in the second set where she overcame a 5-3 deficit. Her ability to add finesse to her power game could make her even more formidable for future opponents.
“I feel like I put even more pressure on opponents when they see I’m not only a hard hitter,” Sabalenka said. “I can also play with some touch.”
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